Three Mile Lake campground, Afton, IA

Hello, fellow Iowans! Are you dreaming of a tranquil escape into nature, where the sounds of the city fade away and the stars shine bright? Look no further than Three Mile Lake Campground in Afton, a highly-regarded destination that promises a clean, quiet, and family-friendly camping experience right here in Union County. While the lake itself has undergone significant restoration efforts, the campground remains a beloved spot for its well-maintained facilities and serene atmosphere, making it a perfect choice for your next Iowa adventure.

Iowa is dotted with beautiful landscapes and recreational areas, and Three Mile Lake Recreation Area stands out as a significant public resource. The campground is designed to offer a comfortable and enjoyable stay for both RV and tent campers, providing essential amenities that enhance your time outdoors. Beyond the individual campsites, the area boasts features that cater to families, offering spaces for kids to play and communal areas for larger gatherings. It's a place where you can truly unwind and feel a sense of peace, as many past visitors have attested.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what makes Three Mile Lake Campground a top pick for locals. We'll delve into its location and accessibility, detail the comprehensive services and features you can expect, and discuss why, despite ongoing lake restoration, it continues to be a highly suitable and cherished destination for those seeking an authentic Iowa outdoor experience. Get ready to discover your next favorite peaceful retreat right here in our home state!

Introduction / Overview

Three Mile Lake Campground, nestled within the Three Mile Recreation Area in Afton, Iowa, is a highly acclaimed camping destination that consistently receives praise for its cleanliness, quiet atmosphere, and family-oriented amenities. Visitors describe it as a truly peaceful retreat where they can feel "as if no one else was there," despite being a popular choice for both short visits and longer stays. It offers a variety of camping options, catering to both traditional tent campers and those with recreational vehicles, ensuring a comfortable outdoor experience for all.

The campground itself is meticulously maintained, with reviews specifically highlighting the spotless condition of the women's bathroom and shower stalls, a critical factor for any comfortable camping trip. Each campsite is thoughtfully equipped with essential features, including electric hookups, fire pits, and picnic tables, many benefiting from natural tree shade. This attention to detail creates a convenient and enjoyable setting for campers. Beyond the individual sites, the campground boasts a sizable playground for children and a large covered patio with picnic tables, perfect for big gatherings or family reunions. Additionally, for those seeking a more solid structure, there are five rental cabins available, each designed to sleep up to six people, providing a rustic yet comfortable alternative to traditional camping.

It's important for prospective visitors to be aware of the ongoing restoration project at Three Mile Lake itself. The lake was reportedly drained in 2016 (though current DNR information indicates construction activities concluding in spring 2025 and lake refilling), with ongoing construction by the DNR to improve water quality, fish habitat, and shoreline stability. While this might temporarily affect direct lake access from the campground's boat docks (as experienced by a past visitor), the campground's inherent quality and proximity to other recreational lakes like Twelve Mile Lake (about 6 miles away) still make it an excellent base for outdoor activities in Union County. The staff at Three Mile Lake Recreation Area are accessible via phone, and it is highly recommended to call ahead for the latest updates on lake accessibility, especially if fishing is a primary activity.

Location and Accessibility

Three Mile Lake Campground is conveniently located at 3 Mile Cabin Ln, Afton, IA 50830, USA, within the larger Three Mile Recreation Area in Union County. For Iowans, this address indicates a prime location that offers a blend of tranquil natural beauty and practical accessibility. To reach the campground from Highway 34, you'll go just west of Afton and turn north on Creamery Road (County Road P53), continue for about 3 miles, then turn west (left) on 150th Street, and finally south (left) at the Three-Mile Recreation Sign. This well-defined route ensures a straightforward journey for both RVs and vehicles towing trailers.

The campground's setting within the Three Mile Recreation Area means it's part of a significant public landholding encompassing an 880-acre lake. While the lake has been undergoing restoration, the surrounding area still offers extensive outdoor opportunities. Its proximity to the town of Afton provides easy access to essential services such as grocery stores, gas stations, and local eateries, ensuring that campers can quickly restock supplies without venturing far from their peaceful retreat. Furthermore, for those looking to explore beyond Three Mile Lake, the nearby Twelve Mile Lake, known for its fishing, is only about 6 miles away, offering an alternative for water-based recreation. The location offers a balanced experience – far enough from urban hustle to provide a true sense of escape, yet close enough for practical convenience. This makes Three Mile Lake Campground an accessible and desirable destination for Iowans seeking quality outdoor time without extensive travel.

Services Offered

Campsites with Electric Hookups: All observed sites are equipped with electricity for RVs and trailers.
Tent Camping Sites: Designated areas suitable for traditional tent setups.
Fire Pits at each site: For campfires and outdoor cooking.
Picnic Tables at each site: Providing designated areas for outdoor dining and relaxation.
Clean Restrooms: Regularly maintained facilities, including clean women's bathrooms.
Clean Shower Stalls: Two clean and well-kept shower stalls available for campers.
Large Covered Patio: A communal area with picnic tables suitable for large gatherings.
Rental Cabins: Five cabins available, each sleeping up to six people, equipped with basic amenities like a Queen size sofa sleeper, 2 sets of bunk beds, table and chairs, dorm-sized refrigerator & microwave, heat and air conditioning, electricity/lights/outlets, and outside picnic table, grill, and water hydrant. Flush toilets/showers are nearby year-round.
Wireless Internet (Wi-Fi): Available in the main campground area.
Dump Station: A facility for RVers to empty waste tanks.
Water access: Water hydrants are available throughout the campgrounds.
Fish Cleaning Station: A convenient facility for anglers.
Lodge Rental: The Three Mile Lake Lodge, a large log structure, is available for public rent year-round for events and gatherings.
Self-Registration System: Campers are asked to self-register upon arrival.
First-Come, First-Served Sites: Campsites are not reservable and are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.

Features / Highlights

Very clean and quiet environment: Consistently highlighted by visitors as a major positive.
Large playground for kids: Provides excellent recreational opportunities for families with children.
Shaded sites: Many campsites offer trees for natural shade.
Proximity to Three Mile Lake: While lake access might be subject to ongoing DNR construction (as of early 2025, restoration project was complete), the campground is adjacent to the lake, offering scenic views and potential future direct access for boating and fishing. The lake is known for excellent fishing for various species including largemouth bass, walleye, catfish, crappie, bluegill, and muskie.
Year-round cabin rentals: Offers comfortable lodging options even during cooler months, complete with heat and A/C.
Community amenities: Large covered patio for group events and a lodge available for public rental.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural setting often allows for spotting local wildlife.
Easy access to nearby Twelve Mile Lake: A convenient alternative for fishing and boating if Three Mile Lake's access is limited.
Excellent customer reviews: Strong positive feedback regarding cleanliness, quietness, and facilities.
Focus on habitat improvement: The DNR's ongoing restoration project aims to enhance water quality and fish habitats, promising improved recreational experiences in the future.

Promotions or Special Offers

As a public campground managed by the Union County Conservation Board, Three Mile Lake Campground typically operates on a set fee schedule rather than offering frequent, commercially-driven "promotions" in the traditional sense. However, the value proposition for Iowans comes from several inherent benefits and transparent pricing:

Affordable Campsite Fees: Campground fees for electrical sites are publicly listed at a reasonable $20.00 per night, making it a very accessible option for budget-conscious campers. This consistent low price acts as an ongoing "special offer" compared to many private campgrounds.
Value in Cabin Rentals: The rental cabins offer distinct pricing: $65.00 per night Sunday-Thursday, and $75.00 per night on Friday & Saturday. For families or groups of up to six, this provides a structured accommodation option that can be highly cost-effective compared to multiple hotel rooms, especially when considering the included amenities like a refrigerator, microwave, and A/C.
Included Amenities: The provision of electric hookups, fire pits, picnic tables, and access to clean showers and restrooms are standard features that, at other parks, might be premium add-ons. Their inclusion in the base camping fee represents significant value. Similarly, wireless internet availability in the main campground area is a convenient feature that adds to the overall experience without extra charge.
First-Come, First-Served: While not a discount, the first-come, first-served policy for campsites means that no reservations are accepted. This allows for spontaneous trips and can be seen as a "promotion" for those who prefer flexibility and don't want to plan far in advance, provided they arrive early enough to secure a spot.

For the most current rates and any potential updates on pricing or policies, especially concerning cabin or lodge rentals, interested Iowans should directly contact the Union County Conservation Board at the provided phone number.

Contact Information

To plan your visit, inquire about campsite availability, or reserve one of the cabins or the lodge at Three Mile Lake Campground, you can contact the Union County Conservation Board, which manages the Three Mile Recreation Area.

Address: 3 Mile Cabin Ln, Afton, IA 50830, USA (This is the physical location. The mailing address for the Union County Conservation Board is 1577 Creamery Road, Afton, Iowa 51003).

Phone: (641) 347-5100

Mobile Phone: +1 641-347-5100 (This is the same number, often listed as the main contact for the Union County Conservation Board's office).

It is highly recommended to call ahead, especially to inquire about the current status of Three Mile Lake's accessibility for boating and fishing, given the ongoing restoration efforts by the DNR. While campsites are generally first-come, first-served, cabin and lodge rentals do require reservations. The staff are known to be helpful and can provide the most up-to-date information to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For us Iowans, Three Mile Lake Campground in Afton is an exceptionally suitable destination, offering a comprehensive and quality outdoor experience that resonates with local preferences for cleanliness, tranquility, and family-friendly amenities. Its deep appeal lies in its combination of practical features and a serene environment, making it an ideal local retreat.

The cleanliness of the campground, from the sites themselves to the consistently well-maintained restrooms and showers, is a significant highlight for any camper. This attention to detail ensures a comfortable and worry-free stay, a priority for families and individuals seeking a genuine escape. The "very clean and quiet" atmosphere, as described by visitors, truly allows for relaxation and a break from the everyday hustle, making it feel like a true sanctuary within our own state.

Furthermore, the range of facilities caters to diverse needs. Whether you prefer the classic tent camping experience, the convenience of an RV with electric hookups, or the comfort of a rustic cabin, Three Mile Lake Campground has an option for you. The large playground and covered patio for gatherings make it particularly appealing for families and groups, fostering community and creating opportunities for memorable moments. While the status of Three Mile Lake’s full accessibility for boating and fishing due to DNR restoration should always be confirmed by calling ahead, the proximity to Twelve Mile Lake provides an excellent alternative for those eager to cast a line.

Ultimately, Three Mile Lake Campground offers a complete and authentic Iowa camping experience. It’s a place where you can enjoy the simplicity of nature, the warmth of a campfire, and the laughter of children playing, all within a well-managed and welcoming setting. For Iowans seeking a convenient, clean, and peaceful outdoor adventure that feels like a true escape without having to travel far, Three Mile Lake Campground is an outstanding choice and a cherished local resource.